Email from Joe Kelly our state lobbyist:
There are many great resources on bed bugs, some of which we’ve developed. Here is a link to a bed bug fact sheet,
which we developed here at IDPH: http://www.idph.state.ia.us/eh/common/pdf/board_of_health_assistance/factsheet_bed_bugs.pdf. Also attached are two documents. The BB algorithm was created by IDPH to help local public health practitioners handle calls from the public on bed bugs. The second document was developed in Ohio and is geared towards landlords and property managers.
In July, we hosted a webinar entitled “Current Practices in Bed Bug Identification, Remediation, and Follow-up”, where we brought together an entomologist from Iowa State University, a local pest control expert, and an individual from the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals to discuss responsibilities related to hotels. Here is a link to the video/audio: https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/213626232. You will have to “register” even though it is a recording. One of the great things that came out of the webinar was a partnership with Iowa State University extension entomologist Dr. Donald Lewis. He’s a great resource on many pest issues and has offered assistance to our county public health partners. His contact information is:
Donald Lewis
Iowa State University
515-294-1101
There have also been many efforts on a national scale that address bed bugs. One is the bed bug management guide,
which was developed by the National Center for Healthy Housing, and can be found here: http://www.idph.state.ia.us/eh/common/pdf/healthy_homes/bedbug_management.pdf
The state of Michigan also has some great information: http://www.michigan.gov/emergingdiseases/0,1607,7-186–147759–,00.html
I know this is a lot of information, but if there is anything additional we can provide, please let us know.
Mindy Uhle, MPH, HHS
Community Health Consultant
Iowa Department of Public Health | Bureau of Environmental Health Services
321 E 12th Street | Des Moines, IA 50319
PH: 515-242-6131 | [email protected]